Few people realize just how dangerous a hippo can be. They seem like peaceful lumbering beasts, grazing peacefully on grass or just floating in water. But hippos in reality have very sharp teeth and run surprisingly fast, up to speeds of 25 mph (40 km/h)! In Africa, where hippos live, they have claimed thousands of lives, even more than lions.

Ad

Steps

Method 1 of 2: Understanding Hippos

1

Remember that Hippos are vegetarians and don't want to eat people. They charge if they are feeling scared, or are trying to protect their young.

Ad

2

On land, don't get in between Hippos or the water, for they like to feel that they can reach it at all times.

3

In a boat, be careful not to poke a Hippo with your oar---the Hippo could upturn the boat and it's passengers, or maybe even bite it in two.

4

Avoid Hippos at night, when they are most alert. Hippos quite often like to eat meat in the night.

Method 2 of 2: If You Are Chased By a Charging Hippo

1

There is no way you can fight a Hippo, so start running! Hippos can run fast, but they soon get tired and so you may have a chance to get away.

2

If you can, try to get into a building or a car.

3

Run among trees and rocks as they can slow the Hippo down.

Ad

We could really use your help!

Can you tell us aboutpregnancy?

Yes

No

pregnancy

how to enjoy the last month of pregnancy

Can you tell us aboutHarvard Business School?

Yes

No

Harvard Business School

how to get into Harvard Business School

Can you tell us aboutrelationships?

Yes

No

relationships

how to tell your best friend you love her

Can you tell us abouthorses?

Yes

No

horses

how to get more confident around horses

Thanks for helping! Please tell us everything you know about

...

Tell us everything you know here. Remember, more detail is better.

Tips

Provide Details.

Please be as detailed as possible in your explanation. Don't worry about formatting! We'll take care of it.
For example:Don't say: Eat more fats.Do say: Add fats with some nutritional value to the foods you already eat. Try olive oil, butter, avocado, and mayonnaise.